TREATMENT FOR A COLD

 o  You should rest as much as possible.

 o  Drink plenty of extra fluids.

 o Take Tylenol or any form of ibuprophen (Motrin, Advil or Nuprin-generic is OK) if you have a fever, chills, or a headache.  The dosage for these medicines is 2 tablets, 3 or 4 times per day.  Ibuprofen may irritate the stomach. 

o For congestion in the sinuses, take Sudafed (generic is OK) 30 mg, 2 tablets 3 or 4 times per day.  (You will need to ask the pharmacist for the Sudafed “behind the counter”; the Sudafed on the shelves contains a different decongestant, which is less effective).  Don't take it too close to bedtime because it may keep you awake.  Sudafed may raise blood pressure.

 o For a cough take Robitussin DM 2 teaspoons every 4 hours as needed.

 o A saline nasal spray may be helpful if you have sinus congestion.  This can be taken as often as needed.

 o Zinc lozenges may be helpful for general cold symptoms.  Dissolve one in your mouth every 2-3 hours.  Some people have some nausea with this - if that happens, then stop the zinc.  Zinc tablets are not effective for cold symptoms.

 o Echinacea: capsule, tea, or tincture.  May work well to take high dose as soon as cold symptoms begin (2-3 capsules every 2-3 hours).

 o Afrin nasal spray 2 sprays each nostril twice a day for not more than 3 days  

 o   Mucinex 2 tabs twice a day to thin the mucous.

 o You may need an antibiotic if you have:

•     been coughing up or blowing out colored mucous for more than 3-4 days

•     pain from your cheeks going to your teeth

•     fever for more than 2-3 days

•     a sore throat and a fever or have been exposed to strep

•     a dry cough for more than 5-7 days

•     wheezing or difficulty in breathing

(please call the office for an appointment or to speak with a doctor or nurse if you have any of these symptoms)